U.S. patent application number 15/961017 was filed with the patent office on 2019-10-24 for tub for use in a humidifier.
The applicant listed for this patent is ResMed R&D Germany GmbH. Invention is credited to Christian BAYER, Johann Sebastian BURZ, Andreas EIBL, Robert EIBL, Martin KASPARBAUER, Andreas KIRCHBERGER, Bernd Christoph LANG, Johannes NICKOL, Jens ROTHFUSS.
Application Number | 20190321580 15/961017 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 66286124 |
Filed Date | 2019-10-24 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190321580 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KIRCHBERGER; Andreas ; et
al. |
October 24, 2019 |
TUB FOR USE IN A HUMIDIFIER
Abstract
The present invention relates to a tub configured to receive a
volume of liquid for a humidifier, comprising at least one plastic
component and at least one metal component, which together form a
space for receiving said volume of liquid, wherein the at least one
metal component and the at least one plastic component are attached
to each other by means of a silicone seal. Furthermore, the
invention relates to method for manufacturing a tub for a
humidifier.
Inventors: |
KIRCHBERGER; Andreas;
(Miesbach, DE) ; NICKOL; Johannes; (Neukenroth,
DE) ; ROTHFUSS; Jens; (Unterschleissheim, DE)
; BURZ; Johann Sebastian; (Germaringen, DE) ;
EIBL; Robert; (Bad Toelz, DE) ; BAYER; Christian;
(Penzberg, DE) ; LANG; Bernd Christoph;
(Graefelfing, DE) ; EIBL; Andreas; (Munchen,
DE) ; KASPARBAUER; Martin; (Munchen, DE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ResMed R&D Germany GmbH |
Martinsried |
|
DE |
|
|
Family ID: |
66286124 |
Appl. No.: |
15/961017 |
Filed: |
April 24, 2018 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 2205/0238 20130101;
A61M 2205/3331 20130101; B29K 2705/12 20130101; B29C 45/14778
20130101; A61M 16/0066 20130101; B29L 2031/762 20130101; A61M
16/109 20140204; A61M 16/162 20130101; B29C 45/1671 20130101; A61M
2205/3379 20130101; A61M 2205/3368 20130101; A61M 16/16 20130101;
A61M 2205/3653 20130101; A61M 2205/50 20130101; B29K 2069/00
20130101; B29K 2083/00 20130101; A61M 2205/3334 20130101; A61M
2207/00 20130101; B29C 45/14336 20130101; A61M 2207/10 20130101;
A61M 16/161 20140204; A61M 2205/0216 20130101; A61M 2205/3389
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61M 16/16 20060101
A61M016/16; A61M 16/00 20060101 A61M016/00; A61M 16/10 20060101
A61M016/10 |
Claims
1. Tub configured to receive a volume of liquid for a humidifier,
comprising at least one plastic component and at least one metal
component, which together form a space for receiving said volume of
liquid, wherein the at least one metal component and the at least
one plastic component are attached to each other by means of a
silicone seal.
2. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the silicone seal provides a
fluid tight connection between the plastic component and the metal
component.
3. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the silicone seal has a
thickness between 0.01 mm and 0.2 mm, preferably less than 0.1 mm
or 0.05 mm.
4. Tub according to claim 1, wherein at least a section of the
metal component and/or a section of the plastic component is
treated with a silicone adhesion promoting agent.
5. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the silicone seal is formed
from liquid silicone rubber.
6. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the plastic component and/or
the metal component are essentially rigid.
7. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the plastic component is
essentially trough shaped, having a bottom wall and surrounding one
or more side walls, extending from said bottom wall, wherein the
bottom wall has a through hole, said through hole being closed by
the metal component and said silicone seal.
8. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the tub is essentially trough
shaped, having a bottom wall and surrounding one or more side
walls, wherein the plastic component is essentially sleeve shaped
and forms the one or more side walls, while the bottom wall is
substantially formed by the metal component.
9. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the metal component is
attached to an inner side or an outer side of said one or more side
wall and/or to an inner side or an outer side of said bottom
wall.
10. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the metal component is shaped
as a metal plate, preferably a substantially flat metal plate.
11. Tub according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the
metal component is dome shaped, preferably in an outward
direction.
12. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the metal component and the
plastic component are only attached to each other by means of the
silicone seal.
13. Tub according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the
metal component and at least a portion of the plastic component
overlap each other, and wherein the silicone seal is arranged to
extend at least between the overlapping portions of the metal
component and the plastic component.
14. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the silicone seal covers at
least a portion of the metal component, the portion of the metal
component not overlapping with the plastic component; and/or the
silicone seal covers at least a portion of the plastic component,
the portion of the plastic component not overlapping with the metal
component.
15. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the silicone seal further
covers at least a further portion of the metal component and/or the
plastic component for surface protection, in particular any surface
forming the reception space of the tub.
16. Tub according to claim 1, wherein an entire inner surface of
the metal component facing the space for receiving said volume of
liquid is coated with the silicone seal, in particular in the form
of a silicone layer on the surface of the metal component.
17. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the silicone seal is formed
as a labyrinth seal.
18. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the silicone seal forms at
least one channel with two side walls, in which at least a section
of the plastic component and/or the metal component 14 is
arranged/received.
19. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the silicone seal is formed
as a seal providing a spring effect, in particular by comprising a
silicone spring element.
20. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the tub is configured to be
associated with a lid, wherein the tub comprises a lid silicone
seal arranged to provide a fluid seal between the lid and the tub,
when the lid is attached to the tub, in particular in a closed
position.
21. Tub according to claim 1, wherein the lid silicone seal and the
silicone seal attaching the plastic component to the metal
component are an integral a one-piece component.
22. Apparatus for humidifying a flow of air for delivery to a
patient, said apparatus comprising: a tub according to claim 1; a
heating element to heat liquid received within said tub.
23. Apparatus for treating a respiratory disorder in a patient
comprising: a patient interface; a controllable motor-blower
configured to generate a supply of air at a positive pressure
relative to ambient pressure; and a tub according to claim 1.
24. Method for manufacturing a humidifier tub configured to receive
a volume of liquid, preferably a tub according to claim 1,
comprising at least the following steps: Providing at least one
metal component; Providing at least one plastic component; and
Attaching the at least one plastic component to the at least one
metal component in a fluid tight manner by means of a silicone
seal, such that the metal component and the plastic component
together form a fluid tight space for receiving said volume of
liquid.
25. Method according to claim 24, wherein the plastic component and
the metal component are premanufactured and inserted into a tool,
wherein the components are connected to each other by introducing
silicone into a connection region between the metal component and
the plastic component, in particular by introducing liquid silicone
rubber into a connection region between the metal component and the
plastic component.
26. Method according to claim 24, wherein the tub is manufactured
in a multi-component injection molding process, in particular
comprising injection molding a first component in a first injection
molding step, injection molding a second component in a second
injection molding step, and introducing a third component.
27. Method according to claim 26, wherein first the plastic
component is injection molded and then the metal component is
introduced and afterwards the silicone seal is injection molded so
as to connect the plastic component and the metal component, or
first the metal component is introduced into an injection molding
tool and then the plastic component is injection molded and
afterwards the silicone seal is injection molded so as to connect
the plastic component and the metal component.
28. Method according to claim 26, wherein, during the
multi-component injection molding process, one component is a
plastic material injected in a two-component injection tool and one
component is a silicone material, in particular silicone rubber,
injected into the two-component injection tool and the metal
component or metal blank is inserted as a further component into
the two-component injection tool.
29. Method according to claim 26, wherein the method involves using
a molding tool comprising two or more mold parts, and wherein,
particularly if more than two mold parts are used, one or more of
the mold parts are replaced and or moved for molding the different
components.
30. Method according to claim 24, wherein the silicone is applied
to the metal component and the plastic component by means of a
silicone coating tool and wherein the silicone coating tool is used
to deform the metal component or metal blank into a desired final
shape, in particular a shape with at least a convex shape of the
surface of the metal component facing away from the holding
space.
31. Method according to claim 22, wherein an injection molding
apparatus used for providing, in particular manufacturing the
plastic component is also used for applying the silicone.
32. Method according to claim 24, wherein before the attaching of
the plastic component to the metal component by means of the
silicone, an adhesion promoting agent is applied to at least a
section of the plastic component and/or the metal component.
33. Method according to claim 24, a mask is applied to at least a
fraction of the metal component and/or plastic component to shield
portions that are intended to remain uncoated with silicone,
wherein preferably the mask is removed after the application of the
silicone and/or application of the adhesion promoting agent, and/or
after application of the adhesion promoting agent.
Description
1 BACKGROUND OF THE TECHNOLOGY
1.1 Field of the Technology
[0001] The present technology relates to one or more of the
treatment, prevention and amelioration of respiratory-related
disorders. The present technology also relates to medical devices
or apparatus, and their use.
1.2 Description of the Related Art
1.2.1 Human Respiratory System and its Disorders
[0002] The respiratory system of the body facilitates gas exchange.
The nose and mouth form the entrance to the airways of a
patient.
[0003] The airways include a series of branching tubes, which
become narrower, shorter and more numerous as they penetrate deeper
into the lung. The prime function of the lung is gas exchange,
allowing oxygen to move from the inhaled air into the venous blood
and carbon dioxide to move in the opposite direction. The trachea
divides into right and left main bronchi, which further divide
eventually into terminal bronchioles. The bronchi make up the
conducting airways, and do not take part in gas exchange. Further
divisions of the airways lead to the respiratory bronchioles, and
eventually to the alveoli. The alveolated region of the lung is
where the gas exchange takes place, and is referred to as the
respiratory zone. See "Respiratory Physiology", by John B. West,
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 9th edition published 2012.
[0004] A range of respiratory disorders exist. Certain disorders
may be characterised by particular events, e.g. apneas, hypopneas,
and hyperpneas.
[0005] Examples of respiratory disorders include Obstructive Sleep
Apnea (OSA), Cheyne-Stokes Respiration (CSR), respiratory
insufficiency, Obesity Hyperventilation Syndrome (OHS), Chronic
Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Neuromuscular Disease (NMD)
and Chest wall disorders.
[0006] Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a form of Sleep Disordered
Breathing (SDB), is characterised by events including occlusion or
obstruction of the upper air passage during sleep. It results from
a combination of an abnormally small upper airway and the normal
loss of muscle tone in the region of the tongue, soft palate and
posterior oropharyngeal wall during sleep. The condition causes the
affected patient to stop breathing for periods typically of 30 to
120 seconds in duration, sometimes 200 to 300 times per night. It
often causes excessive daytime somnolence, and it may cause
cardiovascular disease and brain damage. The syndrome is a common
disorder, particularly in middle aged overweight males, although a
person affected may have no awareness of the problem. See U.S. Pat.
No. 4,944,310 (Sullivan).
[0007] Cheyne-Stokes Respiration (CSR) is another form of sleep
disordered breathing. CSR is a disorder of a patient's respiratory
controller in which there are rhythmic alternating periods of
waxing and waning ventilation known as CSR cycles. CSR is
characterised by repetitive de-oxygenation and re-oxygenation of
the arterial blood. It is possible that CSR is harmful because of
the repetitive hypoxia. In some patients CSR is associated with
repetitive arousal from sleep, which causes severe sleep
disruption, increased sympathetic activity, and increased
afterload. See U.S. Pat. No. 6,532,959 (Berthon-Jones).
[0008] Respiratory failure is an umbrella term for respiratory
disorders in which the lungs are unable to inspire sufficient
oxygen or exhale sufficient CO.sub.2 to meet the patient's needs.
Respiratory failure may encompass some or all of the following
disorders.
[0009] A patient with respiratory insufficiency (a form of
respiratory failure) may experience abnormal shortness of breath on
exercise.
[0010] Obesity Hyperventilation Syndrome (OHS) is defined as the
combination of severe obesity and awake chronic hypercapnia, in the
absence of other known causes for hypoventilation. Symptoms include
dyspnea, morning headache and excessive daytime sleepiness.
[0011] Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) encompasses any
of a group of lower airway diseases that have certain
characteristics in common. These include increased resistance to
air movement, extended expiratory phase of respiration, and loss of
the normal elasticity of the lung. Examples of COPD are emphysema
and chronic bronchitis. COPD is caused by chronic tobacco smoking
(primary risk factor), occupational exposures, air pollution and
genetic factors. Symptoms include: dyspnea on exertion, chronic
cough and sputum production.
[0012] A range of therapies have been used to treat or ameliorate
such conditions. Furthermore, otherwise healthy individuals may
take advantage of such therapies to prevent respiratory disorders
from arising. However, these have a number of shortcomings.
1.2.2 Therapy
[0013] Various therapies, such as Continuous Positive Airway
Pressure (CPAP) therapy, Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and
Invasive ventilation (IV) have been used to treat one or more of
the above respiratory disorders.
[0014] Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy has been
used to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). The mechanism of
action is that continuous positive airway pressure acts as a
pneumatic splint and may prevent upper airway occlusion, such as by
pushing the soft palate and tongue forward and away from the
posterior oropharyngeal wall. Treatment of OSA by CPAP therapy may
be voluntary, and hence patients may elect not to comply with
therapy if they find devices used to provide such therapy one or
more of: uncomfortable, difficult to use, expensive and
aesthetically unappealing.
[0015] Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) provides ventilatory support
to a patient through the upper airways to assist the patient
breathing and/or maintain adequate oxygen levels in the body by
doing some or all of the work of breathing. The ventilatory support
is provided via a non-invasive patient interface. NIV has been used
to treat CSR and respiratory failure, in forms such as OHS, COPD,
NMD and Chest Wall disorders. In some forms, the comfort and
effectiveness of these therapies may be improved.
1.2.3 Treatment Systems
[0016] These therapies may be provided by a treatment system or
device. Such systems and devices may also be used to screen,
diagnose, or monitor a condition without treating it.
[0017] A treatment system may comprise a Respiratory Pressure
Therapy Device (RPT device), an air circuit, a humidifier, a
patient interface, and data management.
[0018] Another form of treatment system is a mandibular
repositioning device.
1.2.3.1 Patient Interface
[0019] A patient interface may be used to interface respiratory
equipment to its wearer, for example by providing a flow of air to
an entrance to the airways. The flow of air may be provided via a
mask to the nose and/or mouth, a tube to the mouth or a
tracheostomy tube to the trachea of a patient. Depending upon the
therapy to be applied, the patient interface may form a seal, e.g.,
with a region of the patient's face, to facilitate the delivery of
gas at a pressure at sufficient variance with ambient pressure to
effect therapy, e.g., at a positive pressure of about 10 cmH.sub.2O
relative to ambient pressure. For other forms of therapy, such as
the delivery of oxygen, the patient interface may not include a
seal sufficient to facilitate delivery to the airways of a supply
of gas at a positive pressure of about 10 cmH.sub.2O.
[0020] CPAP therapy is highly effective to treat certain
respiratory disorders, provided patients comply with therapy. If a
mask is uncomfortable, or difficult to use a patient may not comply
with therapy. Since it is often recommended that a patient
regularly wash their mask, if a mask is difficult to clean (e.g.,
difficult to assemble or disassemble), patients may not clean their
mask and this may impact on patient compliance.
[0021] While a mask for other applications (e.g. aviators) may not
be suitable for use in treating sleep disordered breathing, a mask
designed for use in treating sleep disordered breathing may be
suitable for other applications.
[0022] For these reasons, patient interfaces for delivery of CPAP
during sleep form a distinct field.
1.2.3.2 Respiratory Pressure Therapy (RPT) Device
[0023] A respiratory pressure therapy (RPT) device may be used
individually or as part of a system to implement one or more of a
number of therapies described above, such as by operating the
device to generate a flow of air for delivery to an interface to
the airways. The flow of air may be pressurised. Examples of RPT
devices include a CPAP device and a ventilator.
[0024] Air pressure generators are known in a range of
applications, e.g. industrial-scale ventilation systems. However,
air pressure generators for medical applications have particular
requirements not fulfilled by more generalised air pressure
generators, such as the reliability, size and weight requirements
of medical devices. In addition, even devices designed for medical
treatment may suffer from shortcomings, pertaining to one or more
of: comfort, noise, ease of use, efficacy, size, weight,
manufacturability, cost, and reliability.
[0025] One known RPT device used for treating sleep disordered
breathing is the S9 Sleep Therapy System, manufactured by ResMed
Limited. Another example of an RPT device is a ventilator.
Ventilators such as the ResMed Stellar.TM. Series of Adult and
Paediatric Ventilators may provide support for invasive and
non-invasive non-dependent ventilation for a range of patients for
treating a number of conditions such as but not limited to NMD, OHS
and COPD.
[0026] The ResMed Elisee.TM. 150 ventilator and ResMed VS III.TM.
ventilator may provide support for invasive and non-invasive
dependent ventilation suitable for adult or paediatric patients for
treating a number of conditions. These ventilators provide
volumetric and barometric ventilation modes with a single or double
limb circuit. RPT devices typically comprise a pressure generator,
such as a motor-driven blower or a compressed gas reservoir, and
are configured to supply a flow of air to the airway of a patient.
In some cases, the flow of air may be supplied to the airway of the
patient at positive pressure. The outlet of the RPT device is
connected via an air circuit to a patient interface such as those
described above.
1.2.3.3 Humidifier
[0027] Delivery of a flow of air without humidification may cause
drying of airways. The use of a humidifier with an RPT device and
the patient interface produces humidified gas that minimizes drying
of the nasal mucosa and increases patient airway comfort. In
addition in cooler climates, warm air applied generally to the face
area in and about the patient interface is more comfortable than
cold air.
[0028] A range of artificial humidification devices and systems are
known, however they may not fulfil the specialised requirements of
a medical humidifier.
[0029] Medical humidifiers are used to increase humidity and/or
temperature of the flow of air in relation to ambient air when
required, typically where the patient may be asleep or resting
(e.g. at a hospital). A medical humidifier for bedside placement
may be small. A medical humidifier may be configured to only
humidify and/or heat the flow of air delivered to the patient
without humidifying and/or heating the patient's surroundings.
Room-based systems (e.g. a sauna, an air conditioner, or an
evaporative cooler), for example, may also humidify air that is
breathed in by the patient, however those systems would also
humidify and/or heat the entire room, which may cause discomfort to
the occupants. Furthermore medical humidifiers may have more
stringent safety constraints than industrial humidifiers.
[0030] Respiratory humidifiers are available in many forms and may
be a standalone device that is coupled to an RPT device via an air
circuit, is integrated with the RPT device or configured to be
directly coupled to the relevant RPT device. While known passive
humidifiers can provide some relief, generally a heated humidifier
may be used to provide sufficient humidity and temperature to the
air so that the patient will be comfortable. Humidifiers typically
comprise a water reservoir or tub having a capacity of several
hundred milliliters (ml), a heating element for heating the water
in the reservoir, a control to enable the level of humidification
to be varied, a gas inlet to receive gas from the flow generator or
RPT device, and a gas outlet adapted to be connected to an air
circuit that delivers the humidified gas to the patient
interface.
[0031] Heated passover humidification is one common form of
humidification used with an RPT device. In such humidifiers the
heating element may be incorporated in a heater plate which sits
under, and is in thermal contact with, the water tub. Thus, heat is
transferred from the heater plate to the water reservoir primarily
by conduction. The air flow from the RPT device passes over the
heated water in the water tub resulting in water vapour being taken
up by the air flow. The ResMed H4I.TM. and H5I.TM. Humidifiers are
examples of such heated passover humidifiers that are used in
combination with ResMed S8 and S9 CPAP devices respectively.
[0032] Other humidifiers may also be used such as a bubble or
diffuser humidifier, a jet humidifier or a wicking humidifier. In a
bubble or diffuser humidifier the air is conducted below the
surface of the water and allowed to bubble back to the top. A jet
humidifier produces an aerosol of water and baffles or filters may
be used so that the particles are either removed or evaporated
before leaving the humidifier. A wicking humidifier uses a water
absorbing material, such as sponge or paper, to absorb water by
capillary action. The water absorbing material is placed within or
adjacent at least a portion of the air flow path to allow
evaporation of the water in the absorbing material to be taken up
into the air flow.
[0033] An alternative form of humidification is provided by the
ResMed HumiCare.TM. D900 humidifier that uses a CounterStream.TM.
technology that directs the air flow over a large surface area in a
first direction whilst supplying heated water to the large surface
area in a second opposite direction. The ResMed HumiCare.TM. D900
humidifier may be used with a range of invasive and non-invasive
ventilators.
[0034] While a number of medical humidifiers are known, they can
suffer from one or more shortcomings. Some medical humidifiers may
provide inadequate humidification, some are difficult or
inconvenient to use by patients. Furthermore, some humidifiers may
be expensive to manufacture, therefore not every patient possibly
benefitting from a humidifier may therefore be supplied with one.
In addition, a humidifier and its liquid reservoir are required to
be essentially fluid tight, especially during prolonged use and
over a high number of heating cycles.
[0035] Therefore, a task of the present invention may be to provide
a cost effective and fluid tight tub configured to receive a volume
of liquid for use in humidifier. A second task of the present
invention may be to provide a cost effective apparatus for
humidifying a flow of air for delivery to a patient with little or
no unintended fluid leakage. A third task of the present invention
may be to provide a cost effective apparatus for treating a
respiratory disorder in a patient. A fourth task of the present
invention may be to provide a cost-effective and fast method for
manufacturing of a humidifier tub configured to receive a volume of
liquid.
2 BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE TECHNOLOGY
[0036] The present technology is directed towards providing medical
devices used in the monitoring, amelioration, treatment, or
prevention of respiratory disorders having one or more of improved
comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use and manufacturability.
[0037] A first aspect of the invention relates to a tub configured
to receive a volume of liquid for use in a humidifier. The tub can
also be called a reservoir, in particular a water reservoir. The
volume configured to receive the liquid can also be called a
reception space, reception volume, or simply volume or space.
[0038] The tub comprises at least one plastic component and at
least one metal component, which together form the space for
receiving said volume of liquid. In particular, the metal component
can be configured to facilitate a heat transfer from a heat source,
in particular an external heat source, in order to heat the liquid
in the water reservoir. By heating the liquid, part of it can be
vaporized and thus humidify an airflow. Preferably, the metal
component forms at least a part of a bottom wall of the tub. The
plastic component can reduce weight and/or production costs for the
tub in comparison to a tub whose reception space is formed only by
a metal component. The metal component can increase durability and
efficiency of a humidifier with such a tub in comparison to a
humidifier with tub whose reception space is formed only by a
plastic component. The tub is particular suited for Passover
humidification.
[0039] However, the attachment of the two components constitutes an
additional manufacturing step that may increase overall costs. In
addition, the connection between the metal component and the
plastic component should be fluid tight to prevent unintended
leakages.
[0040] Accordingly, the at least one metal component and the at
least one plastic component are attached to each other by means of
a silicone layer, which can preferably be a silicone seal. Such an
attachment can be especially cost effective. In particular, if the
silicone layer is configured as a silicone seal, unintended
leakages can be prevented without requiring a seal in addition to
an attachment means of the two components. Accordingly the number
of parts can be reduced.
[0041] For example, the silicone layer can also be an interrupted
silicone layer, in particular, comprising stripes, dots or other
shapes. Any portion of the silicone part of the tub not actually
having a sealing effect but nevertheless connected to the part of
the silicone functioning as a seal can be considered as part of the
silicone seal in the context of this application. For example, a
complete inner silicone layer of the tub can still be designated as
the silicone seal.
[0042] Preferably, the silicone seal is at least partially arranged
between two adjacent surfaces of the plastic component and the
metal component, in particular between any adjacent surfaces of the
two components. Preferably, the silicone seal is arranged between
any two respective surfaces of the metal component and the plastic
component which face each other. In particular, there can only a
small gap between those surfaces that is at least partially or
completely filled by the silicone seal. The silicone seal can be
arranged between any surfaces overlapping each other. Preferably,
the silicone seal can be arranged between any two surfaces of the
plastic component and the metal component that overlap each other
in a top view, bottom view and/or in a view from the inside of the
reception space.
[0043] The plastic component can comprise or consist of a
polycarbonate. In particular, the plastic component can comprise or
consist of a medical grade plastic material. The metal part can,
for example, comprise or consist of a corrosion resistive metal, in
particular stainless steel. The metal material of the metal
component can be of a medical grade. Preferably, the silicone is
made from a medical grade silicone, is odorless, is transparent, is
non-toxic and/or is biocompatible.
[0044] In preferred embodiments of the tub, the silicone seal
provides a fluid tight connection between the plastic component and
the metal component. Therefore unintended leakages can be
prevented. The silicone seal can then also be called a silicone
fluid seal. In particular, the silicone seal is configured to
continue to properly seal the attachment between the metal
component and the plastic component during heating cycles of a
humidifier. For example, the silicone seal can be adapted to absorb
different thermal expansions of the metal component and the plastic
component during use of the humidifier without allowing an
unintended leakage or at least while still substantially
maintaining its sealing function.
[0045] Another preferred embodiment of the tub, the silicone seal
has a thickness between 0.01 mm and 0.2 mm, preferably less than
0.01 mm or 0.05 mm. Such a thickness of the silicone seal can
provide a substantially rigid connection between the metal
component and the plastic component despite using a silicone that
is inherently flexible. In addition, a thin silicone seal can
reduce manufacturing costs. The thickness of the silicone seal can,
for example, be measured as a thickness of a layer of silicone
and/or along an imaginary line perpendicular to and/or connecting
the at least two surfaces of the plastic component and the metal
component adjacent to each other, which can be sealed and/or
connected by the silicone seal. The thickness of the silicone seal
can also be defined as its smallest or average thickness. The
thickness can also directly relate to a gap size between adjacent
surfaces of the metal component and the plastic component.
[0046] In another preferred embodiment of the tub, at least a
section of the metal component in contact with the silicone seal is
treated with a silicone adhesion promoting agent and/or at least a
section of the plastic component in contact with the silicone seal
is a treated with a silicone adhesion promoting agent. Usually,
silicone, especially when injection molded, only attaches to either
plastic materials or metal materials. Therefore, to form a
connection between the metal component and the plastic component,
at least one of those components can be treated with an adhesion
promoting agent. This allows permanent and secure connection of the
silicone seal to both the metal component and the plastic
component, in particular with one manufacturing step and/or during
injection molding. For example, the adhesion promoting agent can be
sprayed on, be a surface treatment, be a dotting of a material, be
a plasma treatment and/or be a corona treatment.
[0047] Another preferred embodiment of the tub, the silicone seal
is formed from liquid silicone rubber. Liquid silicone rubber can
be easy to process and handle and may also provide a particular
robust connection between the metal component and the plastic
component.
[0048] In another preferred embodiment of the tub, the plastic
component and/or the metal component are essential rigid. In
particular, the plastic component and/or the metal component can be
considered as non-flexible. By comparison, the silicone seal can be
flexible and/or non-rigid. For example, the silicone seal can be
more flexible, more elastic, and/or less rigid then the metal
component and/or the plastic component. The plastic component
and/or the metal component can be essentially non-compressible
and/or non-stretchable. By comparison, the silicone seal can be
stretchable and/or compressible. For example, the silicone seal can
be more stretchable and/or compressible then the metal component
and/or the plastic component.
[0049] In a further preferred embodiment of the tub, the plastic
component is essentially trough shaped, having a bottom wall and
surrounding sidewalls, extending from said bottom wall, wherein the
bottom wall was a through hole, said through hole being closed, at
least partially, by the metal component and said silicone seal. The
side walls can also relate to one single continuous side wall
forming a circumference of the tub. In a sectional view, such a
side wall is then depicted as a plurality of side walls.
[0050] For example, the through hole is closed in a fluid tight
manner by the metal component and the silicone seal. Not all
components closing the through hole are required to be located
outside of the through hole, below and/or above. For example, some
or all components closing the through hole can be located inside
the through hole. The metal component itself can substantially
close the through hole while the silicone seal only closes the
connection between the metal component and the plastic component,
in particular a gap in-between. For example, the silicone seal can
fill any remaining non-fluid tight gaps between the metal component
and the plastic component.
[0051] In another preferred embodiment of the tub, the tub is
essentially trough shaped, having a bottom wall and surrounding
side walls, wherein the plastic component is essentially sleeve
shaped and forms the side walls, while the bottom wall is
essentially formed by the metal component. The silicone seal can
also form a part of the side wall and/or bottom wall, in particular
a minor part at the end of one or both components. Again, the side
walls can relate to only one continuous side wall forming a
circumference of the sleeve. The plastic component can also be ring
and/or annular shaped. The plastic component can also be considered
as a through with no bottom wall.
[0052] By comparison to a tub with the plastic component being
trough shaped, as was described in the previous embodiment, a tub
where the plastic component only forms the side walls can be easier
and/or cheaper to manufacture. On the other hand, the previously
described embodiment of a tub with a trough shaped plastic
component can have a higher ratio of plastic component relative to
other components, possibly resulting in a lighter and/or cheaper
tub.
[0053] In another preferred embodiment of the tub, the metal
component is attached to an inner side or an outer side of said
side wall and/or to an inner side or an outer side of said bottom
wall. The inner side of a wall can be defined as a side forming the
liquid reception space. In particular, an inner side can be any
side that can possibly come into contact with a liquid if the tub
is filled. An inner side can be defined as the side of a wall
facing the reception space. On the other hand, the outer side can
be any side facing away from the space containing the liquid. Outer
sides can be defined as sides opposite to inner sides. In
particular, the outer side of any wall can usually not come into
contact with a liquid filled into the tub. For a bottom wall, its
inner side can be its upper side and its outer side can be its
lower side. In this case, the upwards direction can be defined by
the reception space of the liquid.
[0054] In another preferred embodiment of the tub, the metal
component is shaped as and/or from a metal plate, preferably a
substantially flat metal plate. In particular, the metal component
can be a planer metal plate. Such a metal component is easy and
cost effective to manufacture. In particular, such a metal
component can be simply punched out from a metal sheet.
[0055] Another preferred embodiment of the tub, at least a portion
of the metal component is dome-shaped, preferably in an outward
direction. An outward direction can be defined similar to the inner
and outer side. In particular, an outward direction can be a
direction from an inner side to an outer side of a wall, a downward
direction and/or can be a direction away from a center of the
reception space. A dome-shape of the metal component can improve
the connection to a heating apparatus, in particular to a heating
apparatus with a flat heating plate. The dome-shape can improve
heat transfer from a heating apparatus to the tub and thus to the
liquid contained therein. The dome-shape of the metal component can
result in the metal component curving outwardly convex when seen in
a sectional view. The bottom wall of the tub can at least be
partially dome-shaped away from the reception space for the liquid.
Furthermore, the dome-shape may also allow further compensating
thermal expansion of the metal component during use of the
humidifier while also ensuring improved heat transfer. Preferably,
the metal component is shaped as a dome-shaped metal plate.
[0056] In a further preferred embodiment of the tub, the metal
component and the plastic component are only attached to each other
by means of the silicone seal. Therefore, the silicone seal
preferably not only functions as the fluids seal between the
plastic and metal components but also is the only attachment means
between those two components. Accordingly, there is no need for
additional connection means that may increase costs, number of
parts, weight and/or manufacturing steps. Connection between the
metal component and the plastic component only by the silicone seal
may also offer advantages for the thermal expansion compensation
between the two components.
[0057] Alternatively or additionally, the metal component and the
plastic component can also be fixed to each other by additional
connection means, such as screws, clamps, a snap on connection or
some form of permanent bonding such as welding or gluing. In this
case, the silicone seal, while also enforcing the connection,
primarily functions as seal that closes any non-fluid tight gap
remaining between the two components. [61] Another preferred
embodiment of the tub, at least a portion of the metal component
and at least a portion of the plastic component overlap each other,
and the silicone seal is at least arranged between the overlapping
portions of the metal component and the plastic component. In
particular, the silicone seal can be arranged in any overlapping
portions, wherein overlapping portions are defined as those
overlaps seen from the space for receiving said volume of liquid.
Alternatively or additionally, the silicone seal can be arranged in
any overlapping portion seen in a top view, seen from above, in a
bottom view and/or seen from below of the tub. In particular, the
silicone can be exclusively arranged in between the overlapping
portions. This may reduce the amount of silicone required for the
tub.
[0058] Another preferred embodiment of the tub, the silicone seal
covers at least a portion of the metal component, the portion of
the metal component not overlapping with the plastic component;
and/or the silicone seal covers at least a portion of the plastic
component, the portion of the plastic component not overlapping
with the metal component. Accordingly, the silicone seal can extend
beyond any overlapping portion. This may further improve thermal
expansion compensation of the two components. Furthermore, the seal
and connection can be more robust, especially during thermal
expansion and contraction of the components. The silicone seal can
thus also protect parts of the surfaces of the metal component and
the plastic component. For example, the silicone seal can also
comprise a silicone layer covering parts or all of the inner
surfaces of the tub. This silicone layer can be an interrupted
silicone layer, possibly having stripes, dots or other shapes.
[0059] Another preferred embodiment of the tub, the silicone layer,
in particular the silicone seal further covers at least a portion
of the metal part or the plastic part for surface protection, in
particular parts or all of any surface forming the reception space
of the tub. In this case, the silicone layer respectively the
silicone seal can also be considered or act as a protective
coating. In particular, if the whole surface of the metal component
that could otherwise come in contact with the liquid contained in
the reception space is covered with the silicone seal, a
non-corrosive resistant metal or at least a less corrosive
resistant metal can be used for the metal component. The inner
surface coating of the metal component with the silicone seal may
prevent corrosion. Accordingly, material costs may be reduced. The
silicone seal can also cover at least a part of the plastic
component, particularly a section forming part of the bottom wall
and/or at least a section forming a part of the side wall.
[0060] The silicone seal can cover at least a portion of the metal
component and/or the plastic component in a region where there is
no overlap between the metal component and the plastic component.
For example, the silicone seal can cover a surface of one of the
components that would be otherwise accessible in the absence of the
component. In particular, the silicone seal can act as a protective
coating on a surface side of the metal component facing the
reception space and/or of a surface side of the plastic component
and facing the reception space. The silicone seal can also be a
silicone cover of the metal component. The silicone cover can be
any part of the silicone seal not acting as an attachment between
the metal components in the plastic component. In particular, a
part of the silicone seal can be configured as a silicone cover
layer covering at least a part of the metal component otherwise in
direct contact with the space for receiving said volume of liquid.
Preferably, the silicone seal covers any portion of the metal
component and/or the plastic component forming the surface of the
reception space for the liquid.
[0061] Another preferred embodiment of the tub, an entire inner
surface of the metal component facing the space for receiving said
volume of liquid is coated with the silicone seal, in particular in
the form of a silicone layer on the surface of the metal component
facing the space for receiving said volume of liquid. Preferably,
the layer covering said surface is a thin layer so as not to
inhibit heat transfer from a heat source to the liquid containing
the reception space. Preferably, more than 70%, 80%, 90% or an
entire side of the metal component at least partially facing the
holding space is covered by the silicone seal. In particular, this
is preferable in a case where the metal component is shaped as a
metal plate or dome-shaped metal plate.
[0062] Another preferred embodiment of the tub, the silicone seal
is formed as a labyrinth seal and/or as a seal providing a spring
effect, in particular by comprising a silicone spring element. For
example, a silicone spring element may be a meandered section of
the silicone seal and/or a silicone layer. Another example of a
silicone spring element is a silicone part that is curving back on
itself. Another example of a silicone spring element may be a
section curved in respect to a direct and/or straight connection
between the two respective surfaces of the metal component and the
plastic component connected to each other by means of the silicone
seal. Accordingly, a spring element may be additional silicone
material besides material needed to just fluid-tight fill a gap
between the plastic component and the metal component. The silicone
spring element can be configured to accommodate relative movement
and/or expansion of the plastic component versus the metal
component by a shape change. In particular, the silicone spring
element can accommodate the relative movement and/or expansion not
only by deformation of the silicone material itself, such as
stretching or compression, but by changing and/or deforming its
outer and/or cross-sectional shape. A silicone seal providing a
spring effect is, for example, not a flat layer and/or has more
flexibility than just a (massive) silicone due to its inherent
flexibility. A labyrinth seal may provide improved fluid tightness
between the metal component and the plastic component. In addition,
a labyrinth seal may offer an especially robust connection between
the metal component and the plastic component. For example, a
labyrinth seal may comprise a channel wherein the plastic component
or metal component is partially arranged. This may improve the
connection between the components by providing an at least
partially interlocking connection.
[0063] Another preferred embodiment of the tub, the silicone seal
forms at least one channel with two opposing walls, in which at
least a section of the plastic component is arranged/received. In
this case, the silicone seal cannot only form a material bond
between the two components but also an interlocking connection. The
channel and the two opposing side walls can be a part of or
constitute the previously described labyrinth seal.
[0064] In another preferred embodiment of the tub, the silicone
seal forms at least one channel with two side walls, in which at
least a section of the metal component and/or the metal component
is arranged/received. This configuration may offer advantageous due
to the usually higher thermal expansion coefficient of the metal
component in comparison to the plastic component. Further, it may
also provide an interlocking connection and/or can be part of or
constitute a labyrinth seal.
[0065] In another preferred embodiment of the tub, the tub is
configured to be associated with a lid, wherein the tub comprises a
lid silicone seal arranged to provide a fluid seal between the lid
and the tub when the lid is attached to the tub, in particular in a
closed position. This may reduce or prevent any unintended leakages
between the tub and a closed lid. For example, the lid can be
removable attached and/or attached so that it can be moved between
an open and a closed position. In particular, the tub can comprise
a part of a pivot mount of the lid. The lid can be pivoted between
an open and closed position. For example, the lid can be attached
by means of a pivot connection or a snap-on connection to the tub.
The lid silicone seal can be attached to the plastic component, in
particular an upper side of the plastic component and/or an upper
edge. In particular, the lid silicone seal can be arranged around
an upper circumference of the tub. The lid silicone seal can be
configured to seal a connection between the lid (in particular in a
closed position) and the tub, in particular a tub body, in a
substantially fluid tight manner.
[0066] Another preferred embodiment of the tub, the lid silicone
seal and the silicone seal attaching the plastic component to the
metal component are an integral one-piece component. Accordingly,
the number of parts and/or manufacturing steps can be reduced. This
can also be described as the silicone seal extending along the
plastic component at least nearly up to the upper edge, exactly to
the upper edge or slightly beyond the upper edge. The upper edge
can be an end of the side walls, in particular an upper end. Again,
the upper direction can be defined by the bottom wall and/or the
reception space for the liquids. Preferably, the lid silicone seal
is arranged on a inner side of the upper edge. The side walls can
be partially or completely covered by the silicone seal on the side
facing the reception space (e.g., the inside). Accordingly, the
silicone seal can cover the complete inside of the plastic
component (and optionally also the metal component) and end in an
upper lid silicone seal for sealing a connection between the tub
and an attached lid.
[0067] A second aspect of the invention relates to an apparatus for
humidifying a flow of air for delivery to a patient. Said apparatus
can comprise a tub according to the first aspect of the invention.
Additionally, the apparatus can comprise a heating element to heat
liquid received within this tub. This apparatus can also be called
a humidifier. The humidifier can also comprise the tub. Preferably,
the humidifier is part of a respiratory system, in particular a
system for the treatment of a respiratory disorder in a patient.
Usually, this system comprises a blower for delivering pressurized
breathable gas to a patient, wherein the humidifier can increase
the humidity and/or temperature of this gas. For this purpose, the
humidifier comprises a liquid reservoir that is configured to heat
the liquid contained in the reservoir. Since the apparatus
according to the second aspect of the invention can comprise the
tub according to the first aspect of the invention, improvements,
features and embodiments of the first aspect can be considered as
examples and embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, and
vice versa.
[0068] For example, the heating element can be designed to heat the
metal component of the tub. This allows the heat transfer to the
liquid. In one embodiment, the heating element is an electrical
heatable plate. Exemplary means to heat the metal component are
electromagnetic induction, by directly applying an electrical
current to the metal component and/or by heat transfer, in
particular direct heat transfer, preferably from a hot plate of the
heating element.
[0069] A third aspect of the invention relates to an apparatus for
treating a respiratory disorder in a patient. This apparatus can
comprise a patient interface, a controllable motor blower
configured to generate a supply of air at positive pressure
relative to ambient pressure and a tub according to the first
aspect to the invention. Alternatively or additionally, the
apparatus for treating a respiratory disorder in a patient can also
comprise the apparatus according to the second aspect of the
invention, which comprises a tub according to the first aspect of
the invention. Therefore, improvements, features and embodiments of
the first and second aspect can be considered as examples and
embodiments of the third aspect of the invention and vice
versa.
[0070] A fourth aspect of the invention relates to a method for
manufacturing a humidifier tub configured to receive a volume of
liquid. Preferably, the method is used to manufacture a tub
according to the first aspect of the invention. Therefore, the
method according to the fourth aspect of the invention is suitable
to manufacture improvements, features and embodiments of the first
aspect. Accordingly, any improvements, features and embodiments of
the first aspect can be considered as examples and embodiments of
the fourth aspect of the invention and vice versa. In particular,
the tub according to the first aspect of the invention can comprise
any feature manufactured when employing the method according to the
fourth aspect of the invention.
[0071] Preferably, the method according to the fourth aspect of the
invention comprises at least the step of providing at least one
metal component; providing at least one plastic component; and
attaching the at least one plastic component to the at least one
metal component in a fluid tight manner by means of a silicone
seal, such that the metal component and the plastic component
together form a fluid tight space for receiving said volume of
liquid. This method is cost effective and fast, since connection
means and sealing means between the metal component and the plastic
component do not have to be manufactured and/or mounted separately.
In addition, a particular robust and light tub can be created.
[0072] For example, the two components can be attached to each
other by applying the silicone to one or both components. The two
components can be attached to each other by means of liquid
silicone rubber introduced between the two components, which
hardens to form the silicone seal. The silicone seal can also form
the space for receiving said volume of liquid together with the
metal component and the plastic component. For example, the
silicone seal can be part of the side walls limiting the reception
space for the liquid.
[0073] In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to
the fourth aspect, the plastic component and the metal component
are pre-manufactured and inserted into a tool, wherein the
components are connected to each other by introducing silicone into
a connection region between the metal component and the plastic
component, in particular by introducing liquid silicone rubber into
a region between the metal component and the plastic component or
by introducing silicone to attach two respective regions of the
metal component and the plastic component. The silicone can be
injection molded for that purpose, especially as liquid silicone
rubber. Between can relate to a connection space between both
components at otherwise adjacent surfaces. Please also refer to the
further aspects of the invention for possible arrangements of the
silicone seal, which predetermines the arrangement and/or
introduction of silicone between the components. A connection
region can also be defined as a region where the metal component
and the plastic component would and/or could at least partially
touch each other without the silicone seal to form the reception
space of the tub.
[0074] In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to
the fourth aspect, the tub is manufactured in a multi-component
injection molding process, in particular comprising injection
molding a first component in a first injection molding step,
injection molding a second component in a second injection molding
step and introducing a third component, wherein the first component
preferably is the plastic component, and wherein the second
component preferably is the silicone seal, and wherein the third
component preferably is the metal component or a metal blank that
is formed into the metal component. Such a manufacturing method is
fast. In particular it may not necessarily require different tools
for the different components and/or for the silicone seal.
[0075] Preferably, the silicone is injection molded, in particular
as liquid silicone rubber, between the metal component and the
plastic component. Alternatively, the silicone seal can be formed
after any injection molding process, for example by an
applicator.
[0076] In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to
the fourth aspect, first the plastic component is injection molded
and then the metal component is introduced into an injection
molding tool and then afterwards a silicone seal is injection
molded so as to connect the plastic component and the metal
component or first the metal component is introduced into an
injection molding tool and then the plastic component is injected
molded and then afterwards the silicone seal is injected molded so
as to connect the plastic component and the metal component. In
particular, the silicon seal is injection molded on the plastic
component and the metal component/metal blank present in an
injection molding tool. Preferably, the injected molding of the
silicone seal is the last manufacturing step. For example, a
multi-component tool can first be used to injection mold the
plastic component. Afterwards, for example, a half of the
multi-component injection tool is changed and/or movable parts are
added or removed from the tool. In addition, either a metal blank
designed to be formed into the metal component or the metal
component itself--in its final shape--is inserted into the
multi-component injection tool. Afterwards, liquid silicone is
injected into the multi-component injection tool to form the
silicone seal between the metal component and the plastic
component. As is apparent, in this manufacturing process it is not
necessary to extract any components from the multi-component
injection tool before the tub is finished and/or to exchange the
tool itself completely. Accordingly, the tub can be continuously
formed/manufactured in one injection molding machine. Such a method
can be especially cost effective.
[0077] In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to
the fourth aspect, during the multi-component injection molding
process, the first component is a plastic material injected in a
two component injection tool and the second component is a silicone
material, in particular silicone rubber, injected into the two
component injection tool and the metal component or a metal blank
is inserted as the third component into the two component injection
tool. The metal component can be inserted as a rigid plate, in
particular as a non-injection molded insert. For example, a
pre-manufactured metal component or a metal blank can be used. The
third component can be considered or designated as an insert and/or
non-injection molded component.
[0078] Generally, in the method according to the fourth aspect a
metal blank instead of a finished metal component can be used. In
particular, the metal blank can be a flat metal sheet. If a metal
blank is used, it can preferably be formed during the injection
molding of the plastic component and/or the silicone seal to
achieve its final shape; e.g., to be formed into the metal
component. For example, the injection molding of the plastic and/or
the silicone can deform a metal sheet into a dome-shaped metal
component. Such a method can be especially cost effective. This
process can require only one tool, in particular with a removable
part, or the tool can be exchanged in between.
[0079] In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to
the fourth aspect, the method involves using a molding tool
comprising two or more parts and wherein, particularly if more than
two mold parts are used, one or more of the mold parts are replaced
and/or moved for molding the different parts/components of the tub.
For example, this method and/or molded tool can comprise a sliding
member, an exchange of the tool part by another tool part,
particularly with a different geometry, and/or switching a half
shell of the tool body by another half shell. During the
process/method and/or exchange/replacement/movement of tool parts,
any intermediate product can preferably remain in the tool, in
particular in an unmoved part and/or a part remaining in the
injection molding apparatus.
[0080] In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to
the fourth aspect, the silicone is applied to the metal component
and the plastic component by means of a silicone coating tool and
the silicone coating tool is used to deform the metal into the
desired final shape, in particular a shape with at least a
dome-shape of the surface of the metal part facing away from the
holding space. The metal can be a metal blank, such as a flat metal
sheet. Preferably, the silicone coating tool can be an injection
molding tool. Even more preferred, the silicone coating tool can be
the same or the at least part of the tool used to injection mold
the plastic component and/or silicone seal. Preferably, the
silicone coating tool is the before described multi-component
injection tool. The deformation of the metal component or metal
blank into its desired final shape can be done before, after or
during the application, in particular the injection of the
silicone. Alternatively to forming the metal component or metal
blank by means of the injection of the plastic into the tool, the
metal component or metal blank can also be formed by the tool
itself, for example in a separate step, in particular by closing
the tool and/or moving a part of the tool. For example, two half of
an injection molding tool can be closed with sufficient force to
deform the metal component or metal blank in its desired final
shape.
[0081] In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to
the fourth aspect, an injection molding apparatus used for
providing, in particular manufacturing the plastic component, is
also used for applying the silicone. In particular, the injection
molding apparatus can be used to apply the silicone to both the
plastic component and the metal component. Preferably the same
injection molding apparatus is used to manufacture the complete
tub.
[0082] In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to
the fourth aspect, before the attaching of the plastic component to
the metal component by means of the silicone, an adhesion promoting
agent is applied to at least a section of the plastic component
and/or the metal component. In particular, the adhesion promoting
agent can be applied to a section directly adjacent and/or facing a
connection space between the two components. For further details of
the arrangement of the silicone seal and therefore an appropriate
arrangement of an adhesion promoting agent, please refer to the
description of the other aspects of the invention, in particular
the first aspect.
[0083] Preferably, the adhesion promoting agent is sprayed onto an
appropriate surface of the plastic component and/or the metal
components. In the context of the application of the adhesion
promoting agent, the adhesion promoting agent can also be applied
to a metal blank that is later formed into the metal component.
Preferably, the plastic component, the metal component and/or the
metal blank rest for a predetermined time for evaporation after
production of the finished tub to avoid contact of the agent with a
breathing gas. Alternatively or additionally, the reception space
for the liquid can be cleaned after the application of the silicone
seal. In other words: the reservoir can be washed after production,
in particular after application of the silicone. As a further or
alternative measure, the silicone can be coated to the complete
surface that has been treated with an adhesion promoting agent.
[0084] Preferably, if the plastic component is formed in an
injection molding step, the adhesion promoting agent is only
applied to the metal blank or the metal component and the silicone,
in particular liquid silicone rubber, is chosen to be able to
attach to the plastic component without needing any further
adhesion promoting agent.
[0085] In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to
the fourth aspect, a mask is applied to at least a fraction of the
metal component and/or plastic component, to seal portions that are
intended to remain uncoated with a silicone, wherein preferably the
mask is removed after the application of the silicone and/or of the
adhesion promoting agent. This allows to reliably exclude certain
sections of the surfaces from an attachment of the silicone. In
particular, with a mask a non-area specific application method for
the adhesion promoting agent, such as spraying it on in a chamber,
can be used while still reliably defining which sections of the
surfaces are actually treated. For example, the mask can be made
from a masking tape. Alternatively or additionally, certain
sections of the surfaces can be applied with an adhesion preventing
agent. Some parts of the surfaces of the plastic component, the
metal component and/or the metal blank can be non-adhesion treated
in order to prevent attachment of the silicone.
[0086] Of course, portions of the aspects may form sub-aspects of
the present technology. Also, various ones of the sub-aspects
and/or aspects may be combined in various manners and also
constitute additional aspects or sub-aspects of the present
technology.
[0087] Other features of the technology will be apparent from
consideration of the information contained in the following
detailed description, abstract, drawings and claims.
3 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0088] The present technology is illustrated by way of example, and
not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying
drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to similar
elements including:
[0089] FIG. 1A shows a system including a patient 1000 wearing a
patient interface 3000, in the form of nasal pillows, receiving a
supply of air at positive pressure from an RPT device 4000. Air
from the RPT device 4000 is humidified in a humidifier 5000, and
passes along an air circuit 4170 to the patient 1000. A bed partner
1100 is also shown. The patient is sleeping in a supine sleeping
position.
[0090] FIG. 1B shows a system including a patient 1000 wearing a
patient interface 3000, in the form of a nasal mask, receiving a
supply of air at positive pressure from an RPT device 4000. Air
from the RPT device is humidified in a humidifier 5000, and passes
along an air circuit 4170 to the patient 1000.
[0091] FIG. 1C shows a system including a patient 1000 wearing a
patient interface 3000, in the form of a full-face mask, receiving
a supply of air at positive pressure from an RPT device 4000. Air
from the RPT device is humidified in a humidifier 5000, and passes
along an air circuit 4170 to the patient 1000. The patient is
sleeping in a side sleeping position.
[0092] FIG. 2 shows in a cross-sectional schematic view a tub
configured to receive a volume of liquid for use in a
humidifier.
[0093] FIG. 3 shows in a cross-sectional schematic view another
embodiment of a tub for use in a humidifier.
[0094] FIG. 4 shows in a cross-sectional schematic view another
embodiment of a tub for use in a humidifier.
[0095] FIG. 5A shows an isometric view of a humidifier.
[0096] FIG. 5B shows an isometric view of a humidifier, showing a
humidifier reservoir 5110 removed from the humidifier reservoir
dock 5130.
[0097] FIG. 5C shows a schematic of a humidifier.
[0098] FIG. 6 shows in a cross-sectional schematic view of an
alternative embodiment of a tub to that in FIGS. 2-4, for use in a
humidifier.
3.1 Humidifier Overview
[0099] In one form of the present technology there is provided a
humidifier 5000 (e.g. as shown in FIG. 5A) to change the absolute
humidity of air or gas for delivery to a patient relative to
ambient air. Typically, the humidifier 5000 is used to increase the
absolute humidity and increase the temperature of the flow of air
(relative to ambient air) before delivery to the patient's
airways.
[0100] The humidifier 5000 may comprise a humidifier reservoir
5110, a humidifier inlet 5002 to receive a flow of air, and a
humidifier outlet 5004 to deliver a humidified flow of air. In some
forms, as shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, an inlet and an outlet of
the humidifier reservoir 5110 may be the humidifier inlet 5002 and
the humidifier outlet 5004 respectively. The humidifier 5000 may
further comprise a humidifier base 5006, which may be adapted to
receive the humidifier reservoir 5110 and comprise a heating
element 5240.
3.2 Humidifier Components
[0101] FIGS. 2, 3, 4 and 6 each show different embodiment of a tub
configured to receive a volume of liquid for use in a humidifier.
In particular, the shown embodiments of a tub 10 can be used or
adapted to be used with a humidifier 5000 according to FIG. 1 and
FIG. 5. The outer shape of tub 10 should be understood as mostly
exemplary and can be adapted to conform to the shape of other
components of the humidifier 5000.
[0102] As can be seen in FIGS. 2 to 4, and 6, tub 10 comprises at
least one plastic component 12 and at least one metal component 14.
The plastic component 12 and the metal component 14 together form a
space 16 for receiving said volume of liquid. In the tub 10, the at
least one metal component 14 and the at least one plastic component
12 are attached to each other by means of a silicone seal 18. In
some embodiments, the silicone seal 18 is the only means of
attachment between the plastic component 12 and the metal component
14.
[0103] As can also be seen in FIGS. 2-4,6, the tub 10 is generally
trough shaped in order to receive a predetermined volume of liquid.
Accordingly, in each embodiment, the metal component 14 forms at
least a part of the bottom wall of the tub 10. Also accordingly,
the plastic component 12 forms at least a part of one or more of
the side walls of the tub 10. The remaining part of the one or more
side walls of the tub 10 may be formed by the metal component 14 or
other components of the tab 10. Generally, when the bottom wall is
circular or oval-shaped, the tub 10 is considered to have one
continuous side wall along the circumference of the bottom wall.
The reference to more than one side walls is more applicable to the
case of a square- or rectangular-shaped tub, where the side wall at
each side of the rectangular may be considered as a separate side
wall. The tubs illustrated in FIGS. 2-4 and 6 are represented in
cross-sectional views only and can represent either case.
[0104] Usually, the tub 10 is placed with the metal component 14
directed downwards in order to be in a thermal contact with a
heating plate. When the heating plate is activated, it heats the
metal component 14 and thus the liquid contained in the space 16.
The liquid can be inserted into the space 16 through the opening 20
at the top of the tub 10. The opening 20, the bottom wall and/or
the reception space 16 can define respectively the upwards,
downwards, inside and/or outside direction of the tub 10.
[0105] The silicone seal 18 attaches the plastic component 12 to
the metal component 14 in a fluid tight manner. This is the reason
why it is referred to as a "seal". However, sealing is not the only
function that the component 18 fulfils. As mentioned, it also
serves as attachment means between the plastic component 12 and the
metal component 14. The silicone seal 18 also serves to at least
partially compensate the different extent of thermal extensions and
contractions of the metal component 14 and the plastic component 12
during a heating cycle of a humidifier. For example, the silicone
seal 18 can be flexible and compensate by being stretched and/or
contracted without breaking contact with the plastic component 12
and the metal component 14. In particular, the silicone seal 18 can
maintain the seal between the plastic component 12 and the metal
component 14 by accommodating such different thermal expansions and
contractions of the plastic component 12 and the metal component
14, without allowing any fluid to leak outside of the space 16
trough a connection between those components.
[0106] As can also be seen in FIGS. 2-4 and 6, the plastic
component 12 and the metal component 14 are only attached to each
other by means of the silicone seal 18. Therefore, no additional
attachment means are required. Even further, the plastic component
12 and the silicone seal 18 can be manufactured together in one
injection molding tool, in particular in a common injection molding
process. In that case, the metal component 14 can be provided into
the injection molding tool as an insert. Accordingly, both the
plastic component 12 and the silicone seal 18 are directly
injection molded onto the metal component 14. For example, the
plastic component 12 and the silicone seal 18 can be injection
molded onto the metal component 14 in two successive molding steps.
For example, first the silicone seal 18 can be injection molded
onto the metal component 14 and afterwards the plastic component 12
is injection molded, in particular onto the silicone seal 18. As an
alternative, first the plastic component 12 is injection molded and
then the silicone seal 18 is injection molded between the two
components 12 and 14. These examples also allow to manufacture the
plastic component 12 independent of the other components. Another
sequence is also possible. For example, the plastic component 12
can be injection molded first, then the metal component 14 is
introduced into the tool and afterwards the silicone seal 18 is
injection molded inbetween the two components 12, 14. The silicone
seal 18 can in each instance serve to connect the two components
12, 14 to each other, in particular in a fluid tight manner. For
this purpose, the silicone can be configured to attach itself to
the plastic of the plastic component 12 while the metal component
14 can be treated with an adhesion promoting agent to allow for the
attachment of the silicone. Preferably, the silicone seal 18 is
manufactured from liquid silicone rubber.
[0107] As can be seen in FIG. 2, the silicone seal 18 substantially
closes a gap between the metal component 14 and the plastic
component 12. In particular, the silicone seal 18 is at least
arranged at an overlap region of the plastic component 12 and the
metal component 14 when seen from a bottom or top view. Since the
tub 10 usually rests on the metal component 14 during use, such a
construction is especially robust because the weight of the tab
strengthens the connection between the two components during
use.
[0108] In the embodiment according to FIG. 2, the silicone seal 18
is formed as an annular member that covers the outer periphery of
the inner side of the metal component 14. Accordingly, a middle
region of the metal component 14 is not covered with the silicone,
thus not inhibiting heat transfer to a liquid in the space 16. In
the present embodiment, the bottom of tub 10 is of a generally
round shape. However, as mentioned above, the tub 10 may also have
any other shapes, such as a basic rectangular or square shape,
particularly when seen in a bottom view.
[0109] FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of the tub 10 in a schematic
cross-sectional view. As can be seen in FIG. 3, in this embodiment
the metal component 14 is not flat (as is the case in FIG. 2), but
has a dome-shaped region 22. This dome-shaped region 22 may provide
improved contact to a heating plate located below the tub 10.
Accordingly, the heat efficiency of a humidifier with such a tub 10
can be improved.
[0110] In FIG. 3, the metal component 14 is only dome-shaped
outwardly from the space 16 in a region not overlapping with the
plastic component 12 in a bottom view. An outer annular section 24
of the metal component 14 has a similar planar shape to the metal
component according to the embodiment of FIG. 2. This allows for an
easier and reliable connection between the metal component 14 and
the plastic component 12 with the silicone seal 18. In alternative
embodiments, the entire metal component 14 may be dome-shaped. Such
a dome-shaped metal component may be easy to manufacture.
[0111] The dome-shape of the metal component 14 according to the
embodiment of FIG. 3 can be formed directly in the injection
molding process of the silicone seal 18 and/or the plastic
component 12. For example, a flat metal sheet blank can be formed,
by the pressure of the injection molding and/or the closing of an
injection molding tool, into the dome-shape.
[0112] FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of the tub 10. In the case
of FIG. 4, the silicone seal 18 provides a type of labyrinth seal
whose sealing between the plastic component 12 and the metal
component 14 can be especially reliable. Even if parts of the area
of the silicone seal 18 according to this embodiment are damaged in
the overlap region of the plastic component 12 and the metal
component 14, there is still some form of redundancy to prevent
unintended leakages of fluid from the space 16. For that purpose,
the silicone seal 18 has two opposite walls 26 that form a channel
28. In that channel 28, a part of the plastic component 12 is
received. This provides an interlocking connection of the
components by means of the silicone seal 18. Alternatively or
additionally, the metal component 14 could also be received in such
a channel formed by two side walls of the silicone seal 18 (not
shown in FIG. 4).
[0113] As can also be seen in FIG. 4, the therein shown embodiment
of tub 10 comprises a silicone seal 18 that covers the whole
surface 30 of the metal component 14 facing the space 16. Whilst
not strictly necessary, the silicone seal 18 in such a
configuration can prevent direct contact of the liquid contained in
space 16 with the metal component 14. Accordingly, it is possible
to use a metal for the metal component 14 that is less corrosive
resistant than the metal used in the other embodiments where the
metal component 14 can have direct contact and is exposed to the
liquid in the space 16.
[0114] While the lower side wall 26 of the silicone seal 18
according to FIG. 4 also covers the surface 30 of the metal
component 14 facing the space 16, such a covering is not necessary
to achieve the corrosion protection of the metal component 14 in
said embodiment, as the covered portion of the component 14 is not
directly exposed to the heated liquid. However, in the present case
this lower of the opposite walls 26 also constitutes part of the
labyrinth seal and improves the connection between the metal
component 14 and the plastic component 12.
[0115] Alternatively to the embodiments of FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, there
may not be an overlapping between the metal component 14 and the
plastic component 12, and the metal component 14 can be limited so
as to not extend radially beyond an inner edge of the plastic
component 12. In this case (shown in FIG. 6) there may be a gap
between the outer peripheral edge of the metal component 14 and the
inner peripheral edge of plastic component 12, which can be bridged
by the silicone seal 18. Because of the flexibility of the silicone
seal 18, in that case the metal component 14 can flex in space,
including moving towards, and away from the space 16, through a
bottom hole of the plastic component 12. This can provide a form of
spring effect that may improve the connection between the metal
component 14 and a hot plate on which the tub 10 is placed. This
may allow to use tubs manufactured with higher manufacturing
tolerances. The gap can be substantial, as shown in FIG. 6, or can
be minimised to a point where the peripheral edges of the metal
component 14 and the plastic component 12 substantially touch each
other. (not shown in FIG. 6)
[0116] In the case of the embodiment of FIG. 6, element 34 provides
the discussed spring function of the silicone seal 18. In the shown
embodiment, the length of the spring element 34 exceeds the gap
between the metal component 14 and the plastic component 12, which
needs to be breached. This excess length, together with the
flexibility of the silicone seal, can cause at least partially the
spring effect. The spring element 34 can include a curved, or
otherwise bent, section of the silicone seal 18. The curved section
34 can deform, in particular by changing its radii. Therefore, the
embodiment of the silicone seal 18 according to FIG. 6 not only
allows an upward movement of the metal component 14 due to a
possible compression and/or stretching of the silicone seal 18 but
also due to an excess length and a deformation of its
cross-sectional shape. Therefore, the metal component 14 can move
relatively freely with respect to the plastic component 12 within
the hole 32 in order to shift its position for a particularly good
contact to a hot plate positioned below the tub 10. Therefore, the
heating efficiency of such a tub 10 may be increased. In addition,
such a tub 10 may be easier to insert in and extract from a
humidifier with less force and/or with a lower risk of damaging
it.
[0117] Preferably, the silicone seal 18 is made from a medical
grade silicone. The thickness of the silicone seal is preferably
between 0.01 and 0.2 mm, preferably less than 0.05 mm. With such a
thickness, the silicone seal 18 does not unnecessarily inhibit heat
transfer from the metal component 14 to the liquid in the space 16,
even if it covers any section of the surface of the metal component
14, which otherwise would be in contact with the liquid. Even with
such a thin thickness, the silicone seal 18 is sufficiently strong
to attach the plastic component 12 and the metal component 14 while
forming a reliable seal.
[0118] As can be seen in the figures showing the embodiments of tub
10, the plastic component 12 can be essentially through-shaped,
having a bottom wall 36 and surrounding side wall 38 extending from
said bottom wall 36. The bottom wall 36 has the already described
through-hole 32, which is closed by the metal component 14 and/or
the silicon seal 18. In FIGS. 2-4, the dimension of the metal plate
14 is larger than the through-hole 32. Such a configuration may
offer benefits since it can limit the maximum movement rage of the
metal component 14 in an upward direction. The bottom wall 36 of
the plastic component can act as an end stop for the metal
component 14. In addition, the bottom wall 36 offers a surface that
can easily be used for reliable attachments of the metal component
14 by means of the silicone seal 18. However, in an alternative
embodiment, the plastic component 12 may only comprise the side
walls 38 and not the bottom wall 36. Such a plastic component 12
may be cheaper and faster to manufacture. In that case, the metal
component 14 can also be located essentially in the through-hole 32
of the plastic component 12. In this case a portion of the silicone
seal 18 may need to be laid over a portion of the side wall 38.
This could be done by attaching the silicone seal 18 to a portion
of at least one of the inner or the outer side of the side wall
38.
[0119] In the shown embodiments, the metal component 14 is arranged
on the outside of the plastic component 12 with respect to the
space 16. However, the metal component 14 can also be arranged on
the inside.
[0120] In other embodiments, the silicone seal 18 can cover further
surfaces of the plastic component 12 and/or the metal component 14.
For example, the silicone seal 18 could cover essentially the
complete inner surface of the side walls 38 and the bottom wall 36
of the plastic component 12. Again, the inner surface in this case
is the surface facing the space 16. In that case, the silicone seal
18 could additionally also protect the plastic component 12 from
exposure to the heated liquid. Such a protective cover may offer an
increased scratch resistance and may also facilitate a cleaning of
the space 16. Furthermore, the silicone seal 18 could also extend
nearly up to the upper edge of the side walls 38 or even slightly
beyond this edge. In that case, the silicone seal 18 can also form
a lid silicone seal for a lid attached to the plastic component 12
at its upper side. Such a lid can be used to close the opening 20.
The lid silicone seal is preferably part of the silicone seal 18
and can then prevent unintended leakage between the lid and the
plastic component 12. This possibly allows the change of an
orientation of the tub 10 without any loss of liquid. This may
facilitate more comfortable handling of the tub 10 when there is
liquid contained within the space 16.
[0121] If the liquid silicone seal 18 also comprises the lid
silicone seal in a one-piece construction, they can be manufactured
together in one step. For example, the silicone seal 18 can be
formed together with its lid silicone seal in one injection molding
step.
3.2.1.1 Water Reservoir
[0122] According to one arrangement, the humidifier 5000 may
comprise a water reservoir 5110 configured to hold, or retain, a
volume of liquid (e.g. water) to be evaporated for humidification
of the flow of air. The water reservoir 5110 may at least partially
be formed by tub 10. The water reservoir 5110 may be configured to
hold a predetermined maximum volume of water in order to provide
adequate humidification for at least the duration of a respiratory
therapy session, such as one evening of sleep. Typically, the
reservoir 5110 is configured to hold several hundred millilitres of
water, e.g. 300 millilitres (ml), 325 ml, 350 ml or 400 ml. In
other forms, the humidifier 5000 may be configured to receive a
supply of water from an external water source such as a building's
water supply system.
[0123] According to one aspect, the water reservoir 5110 is
configured to add humidity to a flow of air from the RPT device
4000 as the flow of air travels therethrough. In one form, the
water reservoir 5110 may be configured to encourage the flow of air
to travel in a tortuous path through the reservoir 5110 while in
contact with the volume of water therein.
[0124] According to one form, the reservoir 5110 may be removable
from the humidifier 5000, for example in a lateral direction as
shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B.
[0125] The reservoir 5110 may also be configured to discourage
egress of liquid therefrom, such as when the reservoir 5110 is
displaced and/or rotated from its normal, working orientation, such
as through any apertures and/or in between its sub-components. As
the flow of air to be humidified by the humidifier 5000 is
typically pressurised, the reservoir 5110 may also be configured to
prevent losses in pneumatic pressure through leak and/or flow
impedance.
3.2.1.2 Conductive Portion
[0126] According to one arrangement, the reservoir 5110 comprises a
conductive portion 5120 configured to allow efficient transfer of
heat from the heating element 5240 to the volume of liquid in the
reservoir 5110. In one form, the conductive portion 5120 may be
arranged as a plate, such as plate 14, although other shapes may
also be suitable. All or a part of the conductive portion 5120 may
be made of a thermally conductive material such as aluminium (e.g.
approximately 2 mm thick, such as 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.5 mm or 3 mm),
another heat conducting metal or some plastics. In some cases,
suitable heat conductivity may be achieved with less conductive
materials of suitable geometry.
3.2.1.3 Humidifier Reservoir Dock
[0127] In one form, the humidifier 5000 may comprise a humidifier
reservoir dock 5130 (as shown in FIG. 5B) configured to receive the
humidifier reservoir 5110. In some arrangements, the humidifier
reservoir dock 5130 may comprise a locking feature such as a
locking lever 5135 configured to retain the reservoir 5110 in the
humidifier reservoir dock 5130.
3.2.1.4 Water Level Indicator
[0128] The humidifier reservoir 5110 may comprise a water level
indicator 5150 as shown in FIG. 5A-5B. In some forms, the water
level indicator 5150 may provide one or more indications to a user
such as the patient 1000 or a care giver regarding a quantity of
the volume of water in the humidifier reservoir 5110. The one or
more indications provided by the water level indicator 5150 may
include an indication of a maximum, predetermined volume of water,
any portions thereof, such as 25%, 50% or 75% or volumes such as
200 ml, 300 ml or 400 ml.
3.2.1.5 Humidifier Transducer(s)
[0129] The humidifier 5000 may comprise one or more humidifier
transducers (sensors) 5210 instead of, or in addition to,
transducers 4270 described above. Humidifier transducers 5210 may
include one or more of an air pressure sensor 5212, an air flow
rate transducer 5214, a temperature sensor 5216, or a humidity
sensor 5218 as shown in FIG. 5C. A humidifier transducer 5210 may
produce one or more output signals which may be communicated to a
controller such as the central controller 4230 and/or the
humidifier controller 5250. In some forms, a humidifier transducer
may be located externally to the humidifier 5000 (such as in the
air circuit 4170) while communicating the output signal to the
controller.
3.2.1.5.1 Pressure Transducer
[0130] One or more pressure transducers 5212 may be provided to the
humidifier 5000 in addition to, or instead of, a pressure sensor
4272 provided in the RPT device 4000.
3.2.1.5.2 Flow Rate Transducer
[0131] One or more flow rate transducers 5214 may be provided to
the humidifier 5000 in addition to, or instead of, a flow rate
sensor 4274 provided in the RPT device 4000.
3.2.1.5.3 Temperature Transducer
[0132] The humidifier 5000 may comprise one or more temperature
transducers 5216. The one or more temperature transducers 5216 may
be configured to measure one or more temperatures such as of the
heating element 5240 and/or of the flow of air downstream of the
humidifier outlet 5004. In some forms, the humidifier 5000 may
further comprise a temperature sensor 5216 to detect the
temperature of the ambient air.
3.2.1.5.4 Humidity Transducer
[0133] In one form, the humidifier 5000 may comprise one or more
humidity sensors 5218 to detect a humidity of a gas, such as the
ambient air. The humidity sensor 5218 may be placed towards the
humidifier outlet 5004 in some forms to measure a humidity of the
gas delivered from the humidifier 5000. The humidity sensor may be
an absolute humidity sensor or a relative humidity sensor.
3.2.1.6 Heating Element
[0134] A heating element 5240 may be provided to the humidifier
5000 in some cases to provide a heat input to one or more of the
volume of water in the humidifier reservoir 5110 and/or to the flow
of air. The heating element 5240 may comprise a heat generating
component such as an electrically resistive heating track. One
suitable example of a heating element 5240 is a layered heating
element such as one described in the PCT Patent Application
Publication No. WO 2012/171072, which is incorporated herewith by
reference in its entirety.
[0135] In some forms, the heating element 5240 may be provided in
the humidifier base 5006 where heat may be provided to the
humidifier reservoir 5110 primarily by conduction as shown in FIG.
5B.
3.2.1.7 Humidifier Controller
[0136] According to one arrangement of the present technology, a
humidifier 5000 may comprise a humidifier controller 5250 as shown
in FIG. 5C. In one form, the humidifier controller 5250 may be a
part of the central controller 4230. In another form, the
humidifier controller 5250 may be a separate controller, which may
be in communication with the central controller 4230.
[0137] In one form, the humidifier controller 5250 may receive as
inputs measures of properties (such as temperature, humidity,
pressure and/or flow rate), for example of the flow of air, the
water in the reservoir 5110 and/or the humidifier 5000. The
humidifier controller 5250 may also be configured to execute or
implement humidifier algorithms and/or deliver one or more output
signals.
[0138] As shown in FIG. 5C, the humidifier controller 5250 may
comprise one or more controllers, such as a central humidifier
controller 5251, a heated air circuit controller 5254 configured to
control the temperature of a heated air circuit 4171 and/or a
heating element controller 5252 configured to control the
temperature of a heating element 5240.
3.3 Glossary
[0139] For the purposes of the present technology disclosure, in
certain forms of the present technology, one or more of the
following definitions may apply. In other forms of the present
technology, alternative definitions may apply.
3.3.1 General
[0140] Air: In certain forms of the present technology, air may be
taken to mean atmospheric air, and in other forms of the present
technology air may be taken to mean some other combination of
breathable gases, e.g. atmospheric air enriched with oxygen.
[0141] Ambient: In certain forms of the present technology, the
term ambient will be taken to mean (i) external of the treatment
system or patient, and (ii) immediately surrounding the treatment
system or patient.
[0142] For example, ambient humidity with respect to a humidifier
may be the humidity of air immediately surrounding the humidifier,
e.g. the humidity in the room where a patient is sleeping. Such
ambient humidity may be different to the humidity outside the room
where a patient is sleeping.
[0143] In another example, ambient pressure may be the pressure
immediately surrounding or external to the body.
[0144] Flow rate: The volume (or mass) of air delivered per unit
time. Flow rate may refer to an instantaneous quantity. In some
cases, a reference to flow rate will be a reference to a scalar
quantity, namely a quantity having magnitude only. In other cases,
a reference to flow rate will be a reference to a vector quantity,
namely a quantity having both magnitude and direction. Flow rate
may be given the symbol Q. `Flow rate` is sometimes shortened to
simply `flow` or `airflow`.
[0145] Humidifier: The word humidifier will be taken to mean a
humidifying apparatus constructed and arranged, or configured with
a physical structure to be capable of providing a therapeutically
beneficial amount of water (H.sub.2O) vapour to a flow of air to
ameliorate a medical respiratory condition of a patient.
[0146] Leak: The word leak will be taken to be an unintended flow
of air. In one example, leak may occur as the result of an
incomplete seal between a mask and a patient's face. In another
example leak may occur in a swivel elbow to the ambient. Leak can
also relate to the unintended flow of liquid from a humidifier,
especially a tub for receiving a volume of liquid of the
humidifier.
[0147] Patient: A person, whether or not they are suffering from a
respiratory condition.
[0148] Ventilator: A mechanical device that provides pressure
support to a patient to perform some or all of the work of
breathing.
3.3.1.1 Materials
[0149] Siliconee or Siliconee Elastomer: A synthetic rubber. In
this specification, a reference to siliconee is a reference to
liquid siliconee rubber (LSR) or a compression moulded siliconee
rubber (CMSR). One form of commercially available LSR is SILASTIC
(included in the range of products sold under this trademark),
manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is
Wacker.
[0150] Polycarbonate: a thermoplastic polymer of Bisphenol-A
Carbonate.
3.3.1.2 Mechanical Properties
[0151] Resilience: Ability of a material to absorb energy when
deformed elastically and to release the energy upon unloading.
[0152] Resilient: Will release substantially all of the energy when
unloaded. Includes e.g. certain siliconees, and thermoplastic
elastomers.
[0153] Hardness: The ability of a material per se to resist
deformation (e.g. described by a Young's Modulus, or an indentation
hardness scale measured on a standardised sample size). [0154]
`Soft` materials may include siliconee or thermo-plastic elastomer
(TPE), and may, e.g. readily deform under finger pressure. [0155]
`Hard` materials may include polycarbonate, polypropylene, steel or
aluminium, and may not e.g. readily deform under finger
pressure.
[0156] Stiffness (or rigidity) of a structure or component: The
ability of the structure or component to resist deformation in
response to an applied load. The load may be a force or a moment,
e.g. compression, tension, bending or torsion. The structure or
component may offer different resistances in different
directions.
[0157] Floppy structure or component: A structure or component that
will change shape, e.g. bend, when caused to support its own
weight, within a relatively short period of time such as 1
second.
[0158] Rigid structure or component: A structure or component that
will not substantially change shape when subject to the loads
typically encountered in use. An example of such a use may be
setting up and maintaining a patient interface in sealing
relationship with an entrance to a patient's airways, e.g. at a
load of approximately 20 to 30 cmH.sub.2O pressure.
[0159] As an example, an I-beam may comprise a different bending
stiffness (resistance to a bending load) in a first direction in
comparison to a second, orthogonal direction. In another example, a
structure or component may be floppy in a first direction and rigid
in a second direction.
3.4 Other Remarks
[0160] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright
owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of
the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in
Patent Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all
copyright rights whatsoever.
[0161] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise and where a
range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening
value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit, between the
upper and lower limit of that range, and any other stated or
intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the
technology. The upper and lower limits of these intervening ranges,
which may be independently included in the intervening ranges, are
also encompassed within the technology, subject to any specifically
excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes
one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those
included limits are also included in the technology.
[0162] Furthermore, where a value or values are stated herein as
being implemented as part of the technology, it is understood that
such values may be approximated, unless otherwise stated, and such
values may be utilized to any suitable significant digit to the
extent that a practical technical implementation may permit or
require it.
[0163] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this technology belongs.
Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those
described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the
present technology, a limited number of the exemplary methods and
materials are described herein.
[0164] When a particular material is identified as being used to
construct a component, obvious alternative materials with similar
properties may be used as a substitute. Furthermore, unless
specified to the contrary, any and all components herein described
are understood to be capable of being manufactured and, as such,
may be manufactured together or separately.
[0165] It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended
claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include their
plural equivalents, unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise.
[0166] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by
reference in their entirety to disclose and describe the methods
and/or materials which are the subject of those publications. The
publications discussed herein are provided solely for their
disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application.
Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present
technology is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue
of prior invention. Further, the dates of publication provided may
be different from the actual publication dates, which may need to
be independently confirmed.
[0167] The terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be interpreted
as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive
manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or
steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements,
components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.
[0168] The subject headings used in the detailed description are
included only for the ease of reference of the reader and should
not be used to limit the subject matter found throughout the
disclosure or the claims. The subject headings should not be used
in construing the scope of the claims or the claim limitations.
[0169] Although the technology herein has been described with
reference to particular examples, it is to be understood that these
examples are merely illustrative of the principles and applications
of the technology. In some instances, the terminology and symbols
may imply specific details that are not required to practice the
technology. For example, although the terms "first" and "second"
may be used, unless otherwise specified, they are not intended to
indicate any order but may be utilised to distinguish between
distinct elements. Furthermore, although process steps in the
methodologies may be described or illustrated in an order, such an
ordering is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize
that such ordering may be modified and/or aspects thereof may be
conducted concurrently or even synchronously.
[0170] It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications
may be made to the illustrative examples and that other
arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and
scope of the technology.
3.5 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST
[0171] 10 tub [0172] 12 plastic component [0173] 14 metal component
[0174] 16 space [0175] 18 silicone seal [0176] 20 opening [0177] 22
dome-shaped area [0178] 24 outer annular section [0179] 26 opposite
side walls [0180] 28 channel [0181] 30 surface [0182] 32
through-hole [0183] 34 spring element [0184] 36 bottom wall [0185]
38 side wall
* * * * *